The Under 13 team played in picture perfect conditions at Dame Allan’s on a pitch that wasn’t conducive to run-scoring but ultimately provided a tense, nail-biting finish.

Bowling first, Ed F took two wickets in his first over: one a smart stumping by Alfie B and the second, a good catch by Henry J. After being 12 for 2, Dame Allan’s recovered to 49 before losing their last eight wickets for 19 runs. Jagraj H took two wickets (one a terrific catch by James A), Ed F chipped in with another two, Harry D effected a run out and James A took two wickets himself, much to the delight of his teammates.

Set 69 to win, Alfie B (28) and Ed F (12) were flying along. After just five overs, NSB were 32 without loss and looking like this was going to be a formality. Losing both Alfie and Ed in quick succession and then Harry D shortly after, left NSB 48 for 3 and like Dame Allan’s, they collapsed losing the next six wickets for just seven runs. Fortunately, Jagraj H was still in and despite seeing five of his teammates come and go, he never gave up hope and it was with last batsman James A that the boys' last ditch effort began to get the 13 runs required for victory.

Slowly but surely, through determined batting against the quick opening bowlers who came back on for their second spell, both boys bravely stood up to be counted and eked out the runs over-by-over until the scores were level. James A was on strike. The next ball was a half volley on leg stump that James clipped beautifully but uppish over square leg. It was on its way to the boundary when the square leg fielder jumped up full stretch to pluck an amazing one-handed catch and the game was a tie!

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We are delighted with Newcastle School for Boys. Our son looks forward to going to school and is happier than he has been for a long time. He is making friends, really enjoying the sport and loves playing for the school rugby team. - New Senior School parents